Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has assured his commitment to fostering a cooperative leadership style within the Nigerian Army.
Oluyede emphasised that this approach will boost the Army’s capability to address the country’s constantly changing security concerns effectively.
Addressing Principal Staff Officers at Army Headquarters on Monday, December 9, 2024, following a Regimental Quarter Guard ceremony to mark his assumption of duty as the 24th Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Oluyede urged unity and innovation across the ranks.
He expressed gratitude to officers and soldiers for their dedication during the period leading up to the burial of the late COAS, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, praising his outstanding contributions to national security.
Lt Gen Oluyede called on commanders to embrace creative and proactive strategies to handle emerging threats, particularly in areas troubled by terrorism and insurgency. He stated that fresh ideas and adaptive methods are vital for maintaining the operational effectiveness of the Army, especially in challenging regions like the Northeast.
Sharing insights from his recent visit to troops of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, the COAS pledged continued support to ensure the successful elimination of terrorism. He highlighted the Army’s commitment to staying prepared for the dynamic nature of security threats and encouraged commanders to adopt flexible and innovative strategies.
Major General Ohwonigho Akpor, Chief of Administration Army, described the Regimental Quarter Guard ceremony as a solemn and symbolic tradition. He noted that the outgoing Army flag was retired to the Army Museum, symbolising the legacy of the preceding COAS and upholding the Nigerian Army’s values and protocols.